FULL-TIME | PORTAGE CAMPUS ADMAF-CT Administrative Assistant

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Overview

  • Eighteen-week certificate program
  • Four-week practicum
  • Entry dates vary by campus:

* In-person hybrid programs are delivered primarily in person, with some components delivered online. Online hybrid programs are delivered primarily online, with some components delivered in person.

Description

This program focuses on the administrative and technical skills needed to meet the demands of the current and emerging office environment. The program provides both the theory and practice for you to succeed in an entry-level administrative position.  

After successful completion of the program you will be knowledgeable in business office software, administrative procedures, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Admission Requirements

Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
The college requires transcripts verifying your complete academic history including any public or private high school, college, university, or technical institute you have attended.

DOCUMENT SUBMISSION

Upload Through Your Future Student Account

  • Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
  • Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
  • Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.

If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.

Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.

Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.

Regular Admission Requirements

  1. Grade 12
    • Submit proof of successful completion of or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
      • Grade 12 English (40S)
      • Grade 12 Math (40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you completed your education outside of Canada or the United States, do not submit your international academic credentials until requested to do so. See Regular Admission Requirement 2 for more information.
      and
  2. English Language Requirements (ELRs)
    • Have you successfully completed the equivalent of three years of full-time secondary (high school) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction? To view a list of ELR exempt countries click here.
        • If yes, you appear to meet English language requirements. Submit your transcripts within 15 days of applying for verification purposes. 
          or
        • If no, you are required to submit proof of meeting an English language requirements option. If you choose to complete an English language assessment, review this program's approved assessments and required levels For information click here.
          or
        • If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but did not complete three years of high school, submit your transcripts within 15 days of applying for review.
    • If you apply within six weeks of the start date of the program, this item is due within 5 days of applying.
    • Approved English language assessments and required levels for this program are:
        • Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Certificate - exit Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels from an English as a second language (ESL) program:
          Listening 8, Speaking 8, Reading 8, Writing 8 
          or
        • International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic):
          Listening 6.5, Speaking 6.5, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.5
          or
        • Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST):
          Listening 4.5,  Speaking 4.5,  Reading 4.5,  Writing 4.5
        • If completing an assessment, we strongly advise you complete it before submitting your application to ensure you meet language requirements and can submit your results within 30 days of applying.
        • Assessment results must be dated within two years of your application date.
        • After confirming you’ve met English language requirements through your assessment results, the College will send you an e-mail requesting submission of your transcripts. 

Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.

  • Academic Requirement
    •  High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in:
      • one credit in each of the following courses:
        • Grade 12 English (40S)
        • Grade 12 Math (40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you completed your education outside of Canada or the United States, do not submit your international academic credentials until requested to do so.  See Regular Admission Requirement 2 for more information.

                     or

    • Introduction to Business Program

                     and

  • Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2

English Language Assessments

English Language AssessmentMinimum Required Levels
L - Listening, S - Speaking, R - Reading, W - WritingLSRW
AEPUCE (Academic English Program of University and College Entrance )
Requirement: Submission of a parchment (certificate) indicating successful completion of the AEPUCE program, including language levels achieved if available.
8888
CAEL and CAEL Online (Canadian Academic English Language)
60606060
CLB (LINC) (Canadian Language Benchmark - Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
Canadian Citizens: LINC programs are not available.
8888
Duolingo (Duolingo English Test)

* MINIMUM OVERAL SCORE OF 115 REQUIRED.

There are no minimum required levels for L,S,R,W.

Only Duolingo English Test scores that have been verified through the Duolingo English Test Portal will be accepted.

0*0*0*0*
IELTS - Academic (International English Language Testing System)
Please Note: 3 year expiry date for Nursing Program Applicants
6.56.56.56.5
PTE - Academic Online Assessment (Pearson Test of English)
58585858
Password Skills (An in person English Language Assessment hosted by RRC Polytech)
This in-person, computer-based test is composed of four test modules: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is conducted in two parts. The first part assesses reading, listening, and writing, and the second part assesses speaking in a separate room. Password Skills is hosted by the RRC Polytech Testing and Assessment Centre: E440, Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae building, on the fourth floor. If you wish to do Password Skills remotely (not in-person), Password Skills Plus can be taken online. RRC Polytech does not offer Password Skills Plus, but we do accept the results for entry into program.
6.56.56.56.5
Password Skills Plus (Password Skills Plus is an online assessment that can be taken instead of Password Skills. )
6.56.56.56.5
TOEFL-iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet Based Test)
To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test in selected areas.
20201924

Who Should Enrol?

Administrative assistants perform a variety of administrative and clerical duties. Take this program if you enjoy planning, organizing, using computers and other office equipment, and working with people in an office environment.

Locations, Dates and Fees

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
Portage La Prairie Campus Jan 06, 2025 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$7,413.00
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,500.001
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$10,830.00
1Includes an estimated average amount of $800 for a laptop

Winnipeg Locations

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
Notre Dame Campus Jan 06, 2025 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$7,455.002
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,500.003
2Includes Health and Dental Fees
3Includes an estimated average amount of $800 for a laptop

Interlake Campus

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
Selkirk Jan 06, 2025 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$7,413.00
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,500.004
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$10,830.00
4Includes an estimated average amount of $800 for a laptop

Steinbach Campus

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
Steinbach Jan 06, 2025 Apply Now
Steinbach Jan 05, 2026 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$7,413.00
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,500.005
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$10,830.00
5Includes an estimated average amount of $800 for a laptop

Winkler Campus

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
Winkler Campus Jan 06, 2025 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$7,413.00
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,500.006
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$10,830.00
6Includes an estimated average amount of $800 for a laptop

Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program. For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685, or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca, which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan applications well in advance of the class start date.

Program Outline

To earn a certificate, you must successfully complete the following 9 courses and a four-week practicum.

Courses:

  • Administrative Procedures
  • Basic Business Communications
  • Basic Mathematics
  • Bookkeeping & Accounting for Small Business
  • Business Computing
  • Customer Service
  • Event Planning
  • Office Professionalism
  • Simply Accounting (PC)
  • Practicum

Courses and Descriptions

(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution, other RPL processes are available for RPL courses. Click here for more information. For courses with no RPL, please check www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
ACCT-1088Simply Accounting (PC)
More Information

By using Sage 50 software, you will develop an understanding on how to enter business transactions into the general ledger, prepare and adjust entries, and print out financial statements. Sage 50 is used for accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and inventory.

Prerequisites:
BUSA-1026Bookkeeping and Accounting for a Small Business
More Information

Study the practical side of bookkeeping and accounting, and learn to identify basic internal control procedures. Become familiar with the recording process, ledgers and trial balance, financial statements and closing entries, cash and how to control it, accounts receivable, inventory and salaries.

BUSA-1081Customer ServiceRPL
More Information

This course develops knowledge and skills necessary to deliver outstanding customer service.  Students will develop skills related to listening, empathy, customer motivation and diversity, communication, and conflict resolution.  Since customer service consists primarily of interaction with others in various situations, students will enhance their interpersonal communication skills.

BUSA-1082Office ProfessionalismRPL
More Information

This course focuses on professional role expectations in the workplace.  These skills are considered to be essential requirements for today’s workforce.  Employees need skills training to be adaptable and capable of meeting the challenges of change in today’s economy, advances in technology, and changes in the way that work is organized.  Students are taught presentation, teamwork, communication, goal setting, and other employable skills.  Students will develop knowledge and skills related to interpersonal image, conflict management, confidentiality, accountability, job search, interviews, and interpersonal communication.

BUSA-1083Event Planning
More Information

This course develops knowledge and skills for students who will be responsible for planning or coordinating events, meetings, or conferences in office environments in the corporate, private, government, and non-profit sectors.  Students will learn the process and logistics to create and stage successful events.

BUSA-1084Administrative Procedures
More Information

Students will develop organizational skills, manage office procedures and records effectively, and operate a variety of office equipment.

COMM-1023Basic Business CommunicationsRPL
More Information

Develop the basic principles of business writing and discuss topics such as: standard business formats, the ability to write clear, readable letters and memos.  It also reviews correct grammar and usage and how to improve effectiveness as a speaker.

COMP-1975Business ComputingRPL
More Information

Business Computing is a hands-on course in which students develop skills in the use of current Microsoft productivity software. Topics include introductory and intermediate skills in Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as the integration of these applications.

MATH-1069Basic Mathematics
More Information

Review basic arithmetic and algebra expressions, including but not limited to order of operations, application ratio, proportion, and percent to business problems, such as commissions and fees. Become familiar with calculating taxes, simple interest, discounts and converting partial hours into minutes to calculate cost to clients.

PRAC-1041PracticumRPL
More Information

This course is designed to provide an opportunity for students in the program to apply classroom business training skills in a practical setting.

CO-OP/Practicum Information

This program integrates classroom theory with related on-the-job training in the form of a practicum.

The practicum component is assessed on a pass/fail basis. 

Practicum placements are determined by the College. Placements are available on a limited and fluctuating basis. There may be a waiting period for practicum registrations and placements. 

To be eligible to participate in a practicum, you must:

  1. Successfully complete all theory courses.
  2. Write a resume/letter of introduction, to be approved by the practicum instructor and to be presented to the immediate supervisor at the first practicum session.

Computer/Laptop Requirements

The use of laptop computers is an integral part of the program. It will enhance your learning and competitiveness in the job market. You are encouraged to bring your own laptop. The minimum laptop requirements are as follows:
  • Processor operating at 1.0 GHz or higher (2.0 GHz recommended)
  • 512 MB of RAM (1 GB recommended)
  • 2 GB hard disk space (additional 1 GB needed for installation)
  • Internet Explorer 11.0 or later 
  • Microsoft® supported version of Windows®: Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10 (with the latest updates from Microsoft)
  • 256-colour or higher SVGA monitor, minimum resolution of 1024 x 768
  • Forms that can be sent via email require MAPI-compliant email client, Internet connection, email service, and word processor
  • Word and Excel integration 64-bit versions of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel 2013 or 2016
  • Outlook synchronization requires 64-bit versions of Microsoft Outlook® 2013 or 2016 (Premium and higher)
  • High-speed internet connection
  • Wireless card

Please refer to https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/computer-requirements/  for further information on Computer Requirements for Students.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing the program, you should be able to:

  • Demonstrate professionalism
  • Communicate effectively
  • Solve problems in a timely fashion
  • Demonstrate effective organizational and resource management skills
  • Provide excellent customer service
  • Demonstrate computer skills
  • Perform a variety of office procedures
  • Operate a variety of current office equipment
  • Stage events
  • Manage records
  • Demonstrate accurate and thorough basic accounting skills

Recent Changes

Changes as of April 1, 2018:
- Basic Mathematics MATH-1069 replaces MATH-1039 (Basic Business Mathematics)
- Keyboarding, BUSA-1080, is no longer required for students who started the program as of April 1, 2018. 
- Practicum is now extended from 3 to 4 weeks.

Note:
Students enrolled prior to April 1, 2018, must complete Keyboarding to meet the graduation requirements. Both MATH-1039 or MATH-1069 are accepted as credits.

Recognition of Prior Learning


The following are the RPL opportunities available in this program:
  • Administrative Assistant Practicum-RPL Fee $250        
  • Basic Business Communication-RPL Fee $200              
  • Basic Business Mathematics-RPL Fee $200                  
  • Business Computing-RPL Fee $250                               
  • Customer Service-RPL Fee $200                                    
  • Keyboarding-RPL Fee $135                                          
  • Office Professionalism-RPL Fee $200                           

Contact:
 RPL Advisor
 Room D101, Notre Dame Campus
 Email: rpladvisor@rrc.ca
 Phone: 204.632.3094

Graduation Requirements

You must complete your program within four years from the start of the first course in the program, unless otherwise stated in the program outline

A program GPA of 2.0 (60%) is required to graduate. The practicum is evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

You will not be granted more than 75 percent of credit requirements for graduation through prior learning assessment and recognition.

When you have completed all the required courses in this program, be sure to apply for your certificate. When you receive your certificate, you will be invited to participate in one of the College's semi-annual graduation ceremonies. For complete details on applying to graduate and convocation, see rrc.ca/convocation.

Questions about graduation? Please call the School of Continuing Education at 204-694-1789 or toll-free at 1-866-242-7073, or one of the regional campuses. 

Graduation with Honours
If you obtain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.8 or better for the program you will graduate with honours. If you fail any course in the program, you will not be eligible for this honours designation.

Employment Potential

Graduates have found positions as administrative assistants or office clerks in businesses, private and public corporations, and government departments.

In Manitoba, annual salaries for this job range from $29,744 to $66,290 (average: $46,800). Wage data taken from jobbank.gc.ca.

Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
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Red River College Polytechnic endeavours to provide the most current version of all program and course information on this website. Please be advised that classes may be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, process, or procedure without notice or prejudice. Fees may change without notice.